isramco10q093010.htm


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 

 
FORM 10-Q
 

 
 
Check One
 
 
x
Quarterly report under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2010
     
   
or
     
 
o
Transition report under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 
Commission File Number 0-12500
 
ISRAMCO, INC
(Exact Name of registrant as Specified in its Charter)
 
Delaware
 
13-3145265
(State or other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)
 
I.R.S. Employer Number
 
2425 West Loop South, Suite 810, HOUSTON, TX 77027
 (Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
713-621-5946
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
 
Indicate by check whether the registrant: (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes o No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large accelerated filer o Accelerated filer x Non-accelerated filer o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)  Smaller reporting company o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No x
 
As of November 9, 2010, Isramco, Inc, had outstanding 2,717,691 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share.
 
 
 

 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

   
Page
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1.
4
 
4
 
5
 
6
 
7
Item 2.
14
Item 3.  
25
Item 4.
26
     
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1.
27
Item 1A.
27
Item 2
27
Item 3.
27
Item 4
27
Item 5.
27
Item 6.
27
 
28

 
 

 
Forward Looking Statements
 
CERTAIN STATEMENTS MADE IN THIS QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q ARE “FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS” WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY TERMINOLOGY SUCH AS “MAY”, “WILL”, “SHOULD”, “EXPECTS”, “INTENDS”, “ANTICIPATES”, “BELIEVES”, “ESTIMATES”, “PREDICTS”, OR “CONTINUE” OR THE NEGATIVE OF THESE TERMS OR OTHER COMPARABLE TERMINOLOGY AND INCLUDE, WITHOUT LIMITATION, STATEMENTS BELOW REGARDING EXPLORATION AND DRILLING PLANS, FUTURE GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES, FUTURE GROWTH, FUTURE EXPLORATION, FUTURE GEOPHYSICAL AND GEOLOGICAL DATA, GENERATION OF ADDITIONAL PROPERTIES, RESERVES, NEW PROSPECTS AND DRILLING LOCATIONS, FUTURE CAPITAL EXPENDITURES, SUFFICIENCY OF WORKING CAPITAL, ABILITY TO RAISE ADDITIONAL CAPITAL, PROJECTED CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATIONS, OUTCOME OF ANY LEGAL PROCEEDINGS, DRILLING PLANS, THE NUMBER, TIMING OR RESULTS OF ANY WELLS, INTERPRETATION AND RESULTS OF SEISMIC SURVEYS OR SEISMIC DATA, FUTURE PRODUCTION OR RESERVES, LEASE OPTIONS OR RIGHTS, PARTICIPATION OF OPERATING PARTNERS, CONTINUED RECEIPT OF ROYALTIES, AND ANY OTHER STATEMENTS REGARDING FUTURE OPERATIONS, FINANCIAL RESULTS, OPPORTUNITIES, GROWTH, BUSINESS PLANS AND STRATEGY. BECAUSE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS INVOLVE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES, THERE ARE IMPORTANT FACTORS THAT COULD CAUSE ACTUAL RESULTS TO DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED BY THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. ALTHOUGH THE COMPANY BELIEVES THAT EXPECTATIONS REFLECTED IN THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS ARE REASONABLE, IT CANNOT GUARANTEE FUTURE RESULTS, PERFORMANCE OR ACHIEVEMENTS. MOREOVER, NEITHER THE COMPANY NOR ANY OTHER PERSON ASSUMES RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY AND COMPLETENESS OF THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. THE COMPANY IS UNDER NO DUTY TO UPDATE ANY FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AFTER THE DATE OF THIS REPORT TO CONFORM SUCH STATEMENTS TO ACTUAL RESULTS.

 
 

 
ITEM 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
ISRAMCO INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 (Unaudited)
 
   
As of
September 30, 2010
   
As of
December 31, 2009
 
ASSETS
 
Current Assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
5,251
   
$
2,907
 
Accounts receivable, net
   
5,840
     
7,424
 
Restricted and designated cash
   
845
     
827
 
Deferred tax assets
   
2,775
     
3,644
 
Derivative asset
   
4,396
     
3,421
 
Prepaid expenses and other
   
1,098
     
656
 
Total Current Assets
   
20,205
     
18,879
 
                 
Property and Equipment, at cost – successful efforts method:
               
Oil and Gas properties
   
223,026
     
220,138
 
Other
   
822
     
672
 
Total Property and Equipment
   
223,848
     
220,810
 
Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization
   
(87,821
)
   
(77,315
)
Net Property and Equipment
   
136,027
     
143,495
 
                 
Marketable securities, at market
   
15,761
     
4,713
 
Debt cost
   
133
     
322
 
Derivative asset
   
1,414
     
2,158
 
Deferred tax assets and other
   
3,757
     
6,751
 
Total assets
 
$
177,297
   
$
176,318
 
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
Current liabilities:
           
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
 
$
8,589
   
$
9,798
 
Short term debt and bank overdraft
   
1,049
     
336
 
Current maturities of long-term debt
   
15,950
     
12,000
 
Derivative liability
   
118
     
693
 
Accrued interest and due to related party
   
9,606
     
4,677
 
Total current liabilities
   
35,312
     
27,504
 
                 
Long-term debt
   
24,125
     
32,950
 
Accrued interest - related party
   
2,666
     
4,832
 
Long-term debt - related party
   
76,354
     
79,354
 
                 
Other Long-term Liabilities:
               
Asset retirement obligations
   
16,641
     
16,248
 
Derivative liability – non-current
   
1,192
     
1,697
 
Total other long-term liabilities
   
17,833
     
17,945
 
                 
Commitments and contingencies
               
                 
Shareholders’ equity:
               
Common stock $0.0l par value; authorized 7,500,000 shares;  issued 2,746,958 shares; outstanding 2,717,691 shares
   
27
     
27
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
23,194
     
23,194
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(11,549
)
   
(11,362
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income
   
9,499
     
2,038
 
Treasury stock, 29,267 shares at cost
   
(164
)
   
(164
)
Total shareholders’ equity
   
21,007
     
13,733
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
 
$
177,297
   
$
176,318
 
 
See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
4

 
ISRAMCO INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
   
Three Months Ended September 30
   
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
                         
Revenues
                       
Oil and gas sales
 
$
9,789
   
$
7,670
   
$
29,147
   
$
21,408
 
Office services
   
123
     
122
     
432
     
499
 
Other
   
16
     
18
     
41
     
309
 
Total revenues
   
9,928
     
7,810
     
29,620
     
22,216
 
                                 
Operating expenses
                               
Lease operating expense, transportation and taxes
   
5,142
     
3,882
     
15,096
     
11,145
 
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
   
3,794
     
4,296
     
10,506
     
13,047
 
Accretion expense
   
231
     
205
     
639
     
619
 
Loss from plugging and abandonment of wells
   
102
     
-
     
790
     
-
 
General and administrative
   
855
     
1,491
     
2,756
     
3,205
 
Total operating expenses
   
10,124
     
9,874
     
29,787
     
28,016
 
Operating income
   
(196
)
   
(2,064
)
   
(167
   
(5,800
)
                                 
Other expenses
                               
Interest expense, net
   
1,923
     
2,288
     
5,840
     
7,091
 
Net loss (gain) on derivative contracts
   
1,683
     
(1,116
)
   
(5,726
   
(145
)
Total other expenses
   
3,606
     
1,172
     
114
     
6,946
 
                                 
Loss before income taxes
   
(3,802
   
(3,236
   
(281
   
(12,746
Income tax benefit
   
1,292
     
1,218
     
94
     
4,504
 
                                 
Net loss
 
$
(2,510
 
$
(2,018
)
 
$
(187
 
$
(8,242
                                 
                                 
Loss per share – basic and diluted:
 
$
(0.92
 
$
(0.74
)
 
$
(0.07
 
$
(3.03
                                 
Weighted average number of shares outstanding-basic and diluted
   
2,717,691
     
2,717,691
     
2,717,691
     
2,717,691
 
 
See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
5

 
ISRAMCO INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
 
   
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
             
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
           
Net loss
 
$
(187
 
$
(8,242
)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
                 
Depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment
   
10,506
     
13,047
 
Accretion expense
   
639
     
619
 
Unrealized and realized gain on marketable securities
   
-
     
(250
)
Changes in deferred taxes
   
(94
   
(4,401
)
Net unrealized loss on derivative contracts
   
(893
   
12,207
 
Amortization of debt cost
   
189
     
189
 
Changes in components of working capital and other assets and liabilities
               
Accounts receivable
   
1,584
     
(243
)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
(442
   
(429
Related party
   
117
     
193
 
Accrued interest - related party
   
(355
)
   
3,234
 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
(1,420
   
470
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
9,644
     
16,394
 
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Addition to property and equipment, net
   
(3,120
)
   
(300
)
Restricted cash and deposit, net
   
(18
   
(70
Purchase of marketable securities
   
-
     
(370
)
Proceeds from sale of marketable securities
   
-
     
752
 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
   
(3,138
   
12
 
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Repayment on loans – related parties, net
   
-
     
2,745
 
Repayment of long-term debt
   
(4,875
)
   
(18,050
)
Borrowings (repayments) of short - term debt, net
   
713
     
(1,118
Net cash used in financing activities
   
(4,162
   
(16,423
                 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
   
 2,344
     
(17
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
2,907
     
3,141
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
5,251
   
$
3,124
 
 
See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
6

 
Isramco Inc.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
 
Note 1 - Financial Statement Presentation
 
As used in these financial statements, the terms “Company” and “Isramco” refer to Isramco, Inc. and its subsidiaries, Jay Petroleum, L.L.C. (“Jay Petroleum”), Jay Management  Company L.L.C. (“Jay Management”), IsramTec Inc. (“IsramTec”), Isramco Resources LLC, Isramco Energy LLC and Field Trucking and Services, LLC (”FTS”).
 
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the SEC instructions to Form 10-Q.  Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements.  In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Results for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2010 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended December 31, 2010. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in Isramco’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires the Company’s management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, if any, at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the respective reporting periods. The Company bases its estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other assumptions and information that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Estimates and assumptions about future events and their effects cannot be perceived with certainty and, accordingly, these estimates may change as new events occur, as more experience is acquired, as additional information is obtained and as the Company’s operating environment changes. Actual results may differ from the estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
Consolidated interim period results are not necessarily indicative of results of operations or cash flows for the full year and accordingly, certain information normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States has been condensed or omitted. The Company has evaluated events or transactions through the date of issuance of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
Risk Management Activities

The Company follows Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 815, Derivatives and Hedging. From time to time, the Company may hedge a portion of its forecasted oil and natural gas production. Derivative contracts entered into by the Company have consisted of transactions in which the Company hedges the variability of cash flow related to a forecasted transaction. The Company has elected to not designate any of its positions for hedge accounting. Accordingly, the Company records the net change in the mark-to-market valuation of these positions, as well as payments and receipts on settled contracts, in “Net gain on derivative contracts” on the consolidated statements of operations.
 
Consolidation
 
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Isramco and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: Jay Petroleum, Jay Management, IsramTec, Isramco Resources LLC and Isramco Energy LLC and FTS. Inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 
7

 
Reclassifications

Certain prior year amounts in the condensed consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to current year presentations

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In January 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2010-06, Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements (ASU 2010-06). This update provides amendments to Subtopic 820-10 and requires new disclosures for 1) significant transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 and the reasons for such transfers and 2) activity in Level 3 fair value measurements to show separate information about purchases, sales, issuances and settlements. In addition, this update amends Subtopic 820-10 to clarify existing disclosures around the disaggregation level of fair value measurements and disclosures for the valuation techniques and inputs utilized (for Level 2 and Level 3 fair value measurements). The provisions in ASU 2010-06 are applicable to interim and annual reporting periods beginning subsequent to December 15, 2009, with the exception of Level 3 disclosures of purchases, sales, issuances and settlements, which will be required in reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2010. The adoption of ASU 2010-06 did not impact the Company’s operating results, financial position or cash flows, but did impact the Company’s disclosures on fair value measurements. See Note 6, “Fair Value Measurements.”

In February 2010, FASB issued ASU No. 2010-09, Amendments to Certain Recognition and Disclosure Requirements (ASU 2010-09). This update amends Subtopic 855-10 and gives a definition to SEC filer, and requires SEC filers to assess for subsequent events through the issuance date of the financial statements. This amendment states that an SEC filer is not required to disclose the date through which subsequent events have been evaluated for a reporting period. ASU 2010-09 becomes effective upon issuance of the final update. The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2010-09 for the period ended March 31, 2010.

In April 2010, the FASB issued ASU No. 2010-12, Accounting for Certain Tax Effects of the 2010 Health Care Reform Acts (ASU 2010-12). This update clarifies questions surrounding the accounting implications of the different signing dates of the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act (signed March 30, 2010) and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (signed March 23, 2010). ASU 2010-12 states that the FASB and the Office of the Chief Accountant at the SEC would not be opposed to view the two Acts together for accounting purposes. The Company is currently assessing the impact, if any, the adoption of ASU 2010-12 will have on the Company’s disclosures, operating results, financial position and cash flows.

Note 2 - Supplemental Cash Flow Information
 
Cash paid for interest and income taxes was as follows for the nine months ended September 30 (in thousands):
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
 
2010
   
2009
 
Interest
 
$
6,001
   
$
4,026
 
                 
Income taxes
   
     
 
 
 
8

 
Note 3 - Derivative Contracts
 
At September 30, 2010, the Company had a $5.8 million commodity derivative asset, of which $4.4 million was classified as current, and a $1.2 million non-current derivative liability. For the nine months ended September 30, 2010, the Company recorded a net derivative gain of $5.7 million ($0.9 million unrealized gain and a $4.8 million gain from net cash received on settled contracts).

At September 30, 2009, the Company had a $10.8 million derivative asset, which $6 million was classified as current. For the nine months ended September 30, 2009, the Company recorded a net derivative gain of $0.14 million ($12.21 million unrealized loss and a $12.35 million gain from net cash proceeds on settled contracts).

Natural Gas
 
At September 30, 2010, the Company had the following natural gas swap positions:
 
   
Swaps
 
Period
 
Volume in
MMbtu’s
   
Price /
Price Range
   
Weighted
Average Price
 
October 2010 – December 2010
   
446,412
   
 $
7.49-8.32
   
 $
7.88
 
January 2011 – December 2011
   
764,820
   
 $
8.22
   
 $
8.22
 
January 2012 – March 2012
   
174,222
   
 $
8.65
   
  $
8.65
 
 
Crude Oil
 
At September 30, 2010, the Company had the following crude oil swap positions:

   
Swaps
 
Period
 
Volume in
Bbls
   
Price /
Price Range
   
Weighted
Average Price
 
October 2010 – December 2010
   
63,717
   
$
63.30-101.70
   
  $
79.59
 
January 2011 – December 2011
   
240,336
   
79.50-91.05
   
$
86.55
 
January 2012 – December 2012
   
127,473
   
$
80.20-88.20
   
$
82.37
 
January 2013 – December 2013
   
89,400
   
85.15
   
$
85.15
 
January 2014 – December 2014
   
66,000
   
  $
86.95
   
$
86.95
 
 
 
9

 
During the second quarter of 2008, the Company decided to mitigate a portion of its interest rate risk with interest rate swaps. These swap instruments reduce the Company’s exposure to market rate fluctuations by converting variable interest rates to fixed interest rates.
 
Under these swaps, the Company makes payments to, or receives payments from, the counterparties based upon the differential between a specified fixed price and a price related to the one-month London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”). These interest rate swaps convert a portion of our variable rate interest applicable to our “Scotia” debt (as defined in Note 8, “Long-term Debt” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009) to a fixed rate obligation, thereby reducing the exposure to market rate fluctuations. The Company has elected to designate these positions for hedge accounting and therefore the unrealized gains and losses are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss. The Company measures hedge effectiveness by assessing the changes in the fair value or expected future cash flows of the hedged item.
The Company’s open interest rate swap positions as of September 30, 2010, as described above, are as follows:
 
National amount (in thousands):
 
Start Date
 
Maturity Date
 
Weighted-Average
Interest Rate
 
$
6,500
 
April 2009
 
February 2011
   
3.63
%
 $
6,000
 
April 2009
 
February 2011
   
2.90
%
 
Note 4 - Long-Term Debt and Interest Expense
 
Long-Term Debt as of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009 consisted of the following (in thousands):
 
   
As of
September 30, 2010
   
As of
December 31, 2009
 
Libor + 2% Bank Revolving Credit Facility due 2011
 
 $
11,950
   
 $
14,950
 
Libor + 2% Bank Revolving Credit Facility due 2012
   
28,125
     
30,000
 
Libor + 6% Related party Debt
   
12,000
     
12,000
 
Libor + 5.5% Related party Debt
   
954
     
954
 
Libor + 6% Related party Debt
   
11,500
     
11,500
 
Libor + 6% Related party Debt
   
6,000
     
6,000
 
Libor + 6% Related party Debt
   
48,900
     
48,900
 
     
119,429
     
124,304
 
Less: Current Portion of Long-Term Debt
   
(18,950
)
   
(12,000
)
Total    $
100,479
     $
112,304
 
 
 
10

 
Senior Secured Revolving Credit Agreements
 
At September 30, 2010, the Company was in compliance with all of its debt covenants under its existing Credit Agreements. 

Interest expense
 
The following table summarizes the amounts included in interest expense for the nine month ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 (in thousands):
 
   
Nine Months Ended
September 30
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Current debt, long-term debt and other - banks corporation
 
$
1,365
   
$
2,112
 
Long-term debt – related parties
   
4,475
     
4,979
 
   
$
5,840
   
$
7,091
 
  
Note 5 - Comprehensive Gain Income (Loss)

   
Three Months Ended September 30
   
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
Net loss
 
$
(2,510
 
$
(2,018
)
 
$
(187
 
$
(8,242 
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
                               
Available-for-sale securities, net of taxes
   
7,331
     
405
     
7,184
     
1,403 
 
Change in unrealized gains on hedging instruments, net of taxes
   
69
     
96
     
277
     
137
 
Comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
4,890
   
$
(1,517
)
 
$
7,274
   
$
(6,702
)
 
 
11

 
Note 6 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Pursuant to ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC 820) the Company’s determination of fair value incorporates not only the credit standing of the counterparties involved in transactions with the Company resulting in receivables on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets, but also the impact of the Company’s nonperformance risk on its liabilities. ASC 820 defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). The Company utilizes market data or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. These inputs can be readily observable, market corroborated, or generally unobservable. The Company classifies fair value balances based on the observability of those inputs.
 
The following tables set forth by level within the fair value hierarchy the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value as of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009. As required by ASC 820, a financial instrument’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. There were no transfers between fair value hierarchy levels for the nine months ended September 30, 2010.

  
 
September 30, 2010
 
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Assets
                       
Marketable securities
 
15,761
   
   
   
15,761
 
Commodity derivatives
   
     
5,810
     
     
5,810
 
                                 
    Total
 
$
15,761
   
$
5,810
   
$
   
$
21,571
 
                                 
Liabilities
                               
Commodity derivatives
   
     
1,192
     
     
1,192
 
Interest rate derivatives
   
     
118
     
     
118
 
                                 
    Total
 
$
   
$
1,310
   
$
   
$
1,310
 

 
12


  
 
December 31, 2009
 
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Assets
                       
Marketable securities
 
4,713
   
   
   
4,713
 
Commodity derivatives
   
     
5,579
     
     
5,579
 
                                 
    Total
 
$
4,713
   
$
5,579
   
$
   
$
10,292
 
                                 
Liabilities
                               
Commodity derivatives
 
$
     
1,852
   
$
   
$
1,852
 
Interest rate derivatives
   
     
538
     
     
538
 
                                 
    Total
 
$
   
$
2,390
   
$
   
$
2,390
 
 
Marketable securities listed above are carried at fair value. The Company is able to value its marketable securities based on quoted fair values for identical instruments, which resulted in the Company reporting its marketable securities as Level 1.
 
Derivatives listed above include swaps that are carried at fair value. The Company records the net change in the fair value of these positions in “Net gain on derivative contracts” in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations, in case of commodity derivatives, and in “Other comprehensive income”, in case of  interest rate derivatives. The Company is able to value these assets and liabilities based on observable market data for similar instruments, which resulted in the Company reporting its derivatives as Level 2. This observable data includes the forward curve for commodity prices based on quoted market prices and prospective volatility factors related to changes in the forward curves.
 
As of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009, the Company’s derivative contracts were with major financial institutions with investment grade credit ratings which are believed to have a minimal credit risk. As such, the Company is exposed to credit risk to the extent of nonperformance by the counterparties in the derivative contracts discussed above; however, while no assurance to this effect can be provided, the Company does not anticipate such nonperformance. Each of the counterparties to the Company’s derivative contracts is a lender in the Company’s Senior Credit Agreement. The Company did not post collateral under any of these contracts as they are secured under the Senior Credit Agreements.
 
Note 7 - Subsequent Events
 
The Company has evaluated subsequent events through November 9, 2010, which is the date the consolidated financial statements were issued.
 
 
13

 
ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
THE FOLLOWING COMMENTARY SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND RELATED NOTES CONTAINED ELSEWHERE IN THIS REPORT ON FORM 10-Q. THE DISCUSSION CONTAINS FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS THAT INVOLVE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES. THESE STATEMENTS RELATE TO FUTURE EVENTS OR OUR FUTURE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE. IN SOME CASES, YOU CAN IDENTIFY THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS BY TERMINOLOGY SUCH AS “MAY,” “WILL,” “SHOULD,” “EXPECT,” “PLAN,” “ANTICIPATE,” “BELIEVE,” “ESTIMATE,” “PREDICT,” “POTENTIAL,” “INTEND,” OR “CONTINUE,” AND SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS. THESE STATEMENTS ARE ONLY PREDICTIONS. OUR ACTUAL RESULTS MAY DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE ANTICIPATED IN THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AS A RESULT OF A VARIETY OF FACTORS, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THOSE SET FORTH UNDER “RISK FACTORS” AND ELSEWHERE IN THIS REPORT ON FORM 10-Q. ISRAMCO INC. DISCLAIMS ANY OBLIGATION TO UPDATE SUCH FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS.
 
Overview
 
Isramco, Inc. (“”Isramco” or “we”) is an independent oil and natural gas company engaged in the exploration, development and production of oil and natural gas properties located onshore in the United States. Our oil and gas properties are primarily located in Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma. We also act as the operator of certain of these properties. Historically, we have grown through acquisitions, with a focus on properties within our core operating areas that we believe have significant development and exploration opportunities and where we can apply our technical experience and economies of scale to increase production and proved reserves, while lowering lease operating costs.

Our financial results depend upon many factors, but are largely driven by the volume of our oil and natural gas production and the price that we receive for that production. Our production volumes will decline as reserves are depleted unless we expend capital in successful development and exploration activities or acquire additional properties with existing production. The amount we realize for our production depends predominantly upon commodity prices, which are affected by changes in market demand and supply, as impacted by overall economic activity, weather, political issues, pipeline capacity constraints, inventory storage levels, basis differentials and other factors, and secondarily upon our commodity price hedging activities. Accordingly, finding and developing oil and natural gas reserves at economical costs is critical to our long-term success. Our future drilling and development plans are subject to change based upon various factors, some of which are beyond our control, including results of operations, oil and natural gas prices, the availability and cost of capital, drilling and production costs, availability of drilling and other services and equipment, gathering system and pipeline transportation constraints and regulatory approvals. To the extent these factors lead to reductions in our operating plans and associated capital budgets in future periods, our financial position, cash flows and operating results could be adversely impacted.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
  
Our primary source of cash during the nine months ended September 30, 2010 was cash flow from operating activities. The capital markets, as they relate to us, have been adversely impacted by the current financial crisis and concerns about the economic recession and its effect on commodity prices.  Continued volatility in the capital markets could adversely impact our ability to replace our reserves, and eventually, our production levels. 
 
Our future capital resources and liquidity may depend, in part, on our success in developing the leasehold interests that we have acquired. Cash is required to fund capital expenditures necessary to offset inherent declines in production and proven reserves, which is typical in the capital-intensive oil and gas industry. Future success in growing reserves and production will be highly dependent on the capital resources available and our success in finding and acquiring additional reserves. We expect to fund our future capital requirements through internally generated cash flows and borrowings under our Senior Credit Agreements. Long-term cash flows are subject to a number of variables, including the level of production and prices and our commodity price hedging activities, as well as various economic conditions that have historically affected the oil and natural gas industry.
 
 
14

 
Debt

   
As of September 30,
 
As of December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Revolving Credit Facility
 
$
24,125
   
$
32,950
 
Long – term debt – related party
   
76,354
     
79,354
 
Current maturities of long-term debt, short-term debt and bank overdraft
   
19,999
     
12,366
 
Total debt
   
120,478
     
124,670
 
                 
Stockholders’ equity
   
21,007
     
13,733
 
                 
Debt to capital ratio
   
85.2
%
   
90
%
 
Under the credit facility available, we can borrow up to a maximum of $50,400 thousand, of which approximately $11,950 thousand is currently outstanding. Management currently believes that this availability is sufficient to provide the liquidity required to satisfy our anticipated working capital needs for 2010.

As of September 30, 2010, our total debt was $120,478 thousand, compared to total debt of $124,670 thousand at December 31, 2009. As of September 30, 2010, current debt included $15,950 thousand as current maturities of the Revolving Credit Facilities, of which $4,000 thousand was the result of management’s decision to continue payments to reduce debt below the borrowing base.  As of December 31, 2009, current debt included $12,000 thousand as current maturities, of which $12,000 thousand was the result of management’s decision to continue payments to reduce debt below the borrowing base.
 
Cash Flow
 
Our primary sources of cash in the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 were our operating activities. In the 2010 period, cash received from operations were mainly offset by repayments made under our revolving credit facilities and payments on addition to oil and gas properties. In the 2009 period, cash received from operations were mainly offset by repayments made under our revolving credit facilities.
 
Operating cash flow fluctuations were substantially driven by changes in commodity prices and changes in our production volumes. Working capital was substantially influenced by these variables. Fluctuation in commodity prices and our overall cash flow may result in an increase or decrease in our future capital expenditures and could influence our ability to reduce our long-term loans. Prices for oil and natural gas have historically been subject to seasonal influences characterized by peak demand and higher prices in the winter heating season; however, the impact of other risks and uncertainties have also influenced prices throughout recent years.
 
   
Nine months Ended September 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Cash flows provided by operating activities
 
$
9,644
   
$
16,394
 
Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities
   
(3,138
   
12
 
Cash flows used in financing activities
   
(4,162
)
   
(16,423
Net increase (decrease) in cash
 
$
2,344
   
$
(17
 
 
15

 
Operating Activities, During the first nine months of 2010, compared to the first nine months of 2009, net cash flow provided by operating activities decreased by $6,750 thousand to $9,644 thousand. This decrease was primarily attributable to a reduction in working capital of $3,741 thousand, higher lease operating expenses and expenses related to our well plugging and abandonment obligations. The reduction in net cash proceeds from commodity price hedging activities of $7,518 thousand was offset by increased oil and natural gas revenues of $7,739.The increase in revenues was primarily attributable to higher average oil and gas prices for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 of $75.69/bbl and $4.92/mcf, compared to $52.08/bbl and $3.38/mcf for the nine months ended September 30, 2009.
 
Investing Activities, The primary driver of cash used in investing activities in 2010 is capital spending. Net cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 were $(3,138) thousand and $12 thousand, respectively.

Financing Activities, Net cash flows used in financing activities were $(4,162) thousand and $(16,423) thousand for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Excess cash flow from operations is used to repay borrowings under our Senior Credit Agreements to the extent available. During the first nine months of 2010, we repaid borrowings of $4,875. During the first nine months of 2009, we repaid borrowings of $18,050.
 
 Results of Operations

Three Months Ended September 30, 2010 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2009

 Selected Data
 
   
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
   
(In thousands except per share
and MBOE amounts)
 
Financial Results
           
Oil and Gas sales
 
$
9,789
   
$
7,670
 
Other
   
139
     
140
 
Total revenues and other
   
9,928
     
7,810
 
                 
Cost and expenses
   
10,124
     
9,874
 
Other expense
   
3,606
     
1,172
 
Income tax benefit
   
(1,292
   
(1,218
)
Net loss
   
(2,510
   
(2,018
)
Earnings per common share – basic and diluted
 
$
(0.92
 
$
(0.74
)
Weighted average number of shares outstanding-basic and diluted
   
2,717,691
     
2,717,691
 
                 
Operating Results
               
Adjusted EBITDAX (1)
 
$
5,608
   
$
5,801
 
Sales volumes (MMBOE)
   
213
     
228
 
                 
Average cost per MBOE:
               
Production (including transportation and taxes)
 
$
24.16
   
$
17.06
 
General and administrative
 
$
4.02
   
$
6.55
 
Depletion
 
$
17.83
   
$
18.88
 

(1)  
See Adjusted EBITDAX for a description of Adjusted EBITDAX, which is not a Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) measure, and a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDAX to income from operations before income taxes, which is presented in accordance with GAAP.
 
 
16

 
Financial Results

Net Income, in the third quarter of 2010, our net loss was $(2,510) thousand, or $(0.92) per share. This compares to net loss of $(2,018) thousand, or $(0.74) per share, for the third quarter of 2009.
 
The increase in net loss was primarily due to a decrease in sales volumes of natural gas caused by the natural decline in production, higher lease operating expenses and the impact of our hedging (derivative) position. This was partially offset by higher natural gas, oil and natural gas liquids (NGLs) sales revenues due to higher prices and increase in sales volumes of oil and NGLs, lower depreciation, depletion and amortization expenses and lower interest expense.  
 
Revenues, Volumes and Average Prices
 
Sales Revenues
 
   
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
In thousands except percentages
 
2010
   
2009
   
D vs. 2009
 
Gas sales
 
$
2,702
   
$
2,202
     
23
%
Oil sales
   
5,794
     
4,516
     
28
 
Natural gas liquid sales
   
1,293
     
952
     
36
 
Total
 
$
9,789
   
$
7,670
     
28
%
 
Our sales revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2010 increased by 28% compared to the same period of 2009 due to higher natural gas, oil and condensate and NGLs commodity prices and increase in sales volumes of oil and NGLs.
 
Volumes and Average Prices
 
   
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
D vs. 2009
 
Natural Gas
                 
Sales volumes Mmcf
   
582.43
     
734.08
     
(21
)%
Average Price per Mcf (1)
 
$
4.64
   
$
3.00
     
55
 
Total gas sales revenues (thousands)
 
$
2,702
   
$
2,202
     
23
%
                         
Crude Oil
                       
Sales volumes MBbl
   
76.53
     
71.13
     
8
%
Average Price per Bbl (1)
 
$
75.71
   
$
63.50
     
19
 
Total oil sales revenues (thousands)
 
$
5,794
   
$
4,517
     
28
%
                         
Natural gas liquids
                       
Sales volumes MBbl
   
39.20
     
34.06
     
15
%
Average Price per Bbl (1)
 
$
32.99
   
$
27.94
     
18
 
Total natural gas liquids sales revenues (thousands)
 
$
1,293
   
$
952
     
36
%

(1)    
Amounts exclude the impact of cash paid/received on settled contracts as we did not elect to apply hedge accounting

 
17

 
The company’s natural gas sales volumes decreased by 21% for the three months ended September 30, 2010 compared to the same period of 2009, primarily due to a natural decline in production. The company’s crude oil sales volumes increased by 8% and natural gas liquids sales volumes by 15% primarily due to workover and recompletion operations we conducted upon some of our properties.

Our average natural gas price for the three months ended September 30, 2010 increased by 55% or $1.64 per Mcf when compared to the same period of 2009. Our average crude oil price for the three months ended September 30, 2010 increased by 19% or $12.21 per Bbl when compared to the same period of 2009. Our average natural gas liquids price for the three months ended September 30, 2010 increased by 18% or $5.05 per Bbl when compared to the same period of 2009.
 
Analysis of Oil and Gas Operations Sales Revenues

The following table provides a summary of the effects of changes in volumes and prices on Isramco’s sales revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2010 compared to the same period of 2009.

In thousands
 
Natural Gas
   
Oil
   
Natural gas liquids
 
2009 sales revenues
 
$
2,202
   
$
4,516
   
$
952
 
Changes associated with sales volumes
   
(455
)
   
343
     
144
 
Changes in prices
   
955
     
935
     
197
 
2010 sales revenues
 
$
2,702
   
$
5,794
   
$
1,293
 

Operating Expenses

   
Three Months Ended September 30,
In thousands except percentages
 
2010
   
2009
   
D vs. 2009
Lease operating expense, transportation and taxes
 
$
5,142
   
$
3,882
     
32
%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
   
3,794
     
4,296
     
(12
Accretion expense
   
231
     
205
     
13
 
Loss from plugging and abandonment of wells
   
102
     
-
     
-
 
General and administrative
   
855
     
1,491
     
(43
   
$
10,124
   
$
9,874
     
3
%
 
 
18

 
During three months ended September 30, 2010, our operating expenses increased by 3% when compared to the same period of 2009 due to the following factors:

·  
Lease operating expense, transportation cost and taxes increased by 32%, or $1,260 thousand, in 2010 when compared to 2009. This increase was the result of the costs associated with a plan we initiated in January 2010 to workover a number of our wells, along with the incremental costs involved in operating older, more mature fields that require additional repair and maintenance, as well as the increasing costs of environmental remediation expenditures. Finally, the higher oil and gas sale prices we received increased the taxes paid during 2010.  On a per unit basis, lease operating expenses (including transportation and taxes) increased by $7.10 per MBOE to $24.16 per MBOE in 2010 from $17.06 per MBOE in 2009.

·  
Depreciation, Depletion &Amortization (DD&A) of the cost of proved oil and gas properties is calculated using the unit-of-production method. Our DD&A rate and expense are the composite of numerous individual field calculations. There are several factors that can impact our composite DD&A rate and expense, including but not limited to field production profiles, drilling or acquisition of new wells, disposition of existing wells,  and reserve revisions (upward or downward) primarily related to well performance and commodity prices, and impairments. Changes in these factors may cause our composite DD&A rate and expense to fluctuate from period to period.  DD&A decreased by 12%, or $502 thousand, in 2010 when compared to 2009, primarily due to higher prices (per MBOE) that impacted our estimated total reserves, which are the basis for the depletion calculation, lower oil and gas production, and the impact of a 2009 impairment of $5,751 thousand on the depletable base used to calculate DD&A. On a per unit basis, depletion expense decreased by $1.05 per MBOE to $17.83 per MBOE in 2010 from $18.88 per MBOE in 2009
 
·  
General and administrative expenses decreased by 43%, or $636 thousand, in 2010 when compared to 2009. This decrease was primarily the result of the one-time payment made in 2009 to settle certain litigation with EOG Resources, LLC.
 
Other expenses

   
Three Months Ended September 30,
In thousands except percentages
 
2010
   
2009
   
D vs. 2009
 
Interest expense, net
 
$
1,923
   
$
2,288
     
(16
)%
Net loss (gain) on derivative contracts
   
1,683
     
(1,116
)
   
251
 
   
$
3,606
   
$
1,172
     
208
%
 
Interest expense.  Isramco’s interest expense decreased by 16%, or $365 thousand, for the third quarter of 2010 compared to the same period of 2009.  This decrease is primarily due to the lower average outstanding balance of the loans which we obtained to fund the Five States acquisition in 2007 and the GFB acquisition in 2008, and to decreases in average LIBOR rates during 2009 and decrease of the payments on interest rate swaps.

Net loss on derivative contracts. We enter into derivative commodity instruments to economically hedge our exposure to price fluctuations on our anticipated oil and natural gas production. Consistent with the prior year, we have elected not to designate any positions as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes. Accordingly, we recorded the net change in the mark-to-market value of these derivative contracts in the consolidated statement of operations.

At September 30, 2010, the Company had a $5.8 million commodity derivative asset, of which $4.4 million was classified as current, and a $1.2 million non-current derivative liability. For the nine months ended September 30, 2010, the Company recorded a net derivative loss of $1.7 million ($3.4 million unrealized loss and a $1.7 million gain from net cash received on settled contracts).

At September 30, 2009, the Company had a $10.8 million derivative asset, which $6 million was classified as current. For the three months ended September 30, 2009, the Company recorded a net derivative gain of $1.12 million ($2.25 million unrealized loss and a $3.37 million gain from net cash proceeds on settled contracts). 
 
 
19

 
Adjusted EBITDAX.  
 
To assess the operating results of Isramco, management analyzes income from operations before income taxes, interest expense, exploration expense, unrealized gain (loss) on derivative contracts and DD&A expense and impairments (“Adjusted EBITDAX”). EBITDAX is not a GAAP measure. Isramco’s definition of Adjusted EBITDAX excludes exploration expense because exploration expense is not an indicator of operating efficiency for a given reporting period, but rather is monitored by management as a part of the costs incurred in exploration and development activities. Similarly, Isramco excludes DD&A expense and impairments from Adjusted EBITDAX as a measure of segment operating performance because capital expenditures are evaluated at the time capital costs are incurred. The Company’s definition of Adjusted EBITDAX also excludes interest expense to allow for assessment of segment operating results without regard to Isramco’s financing methods or capital structure. Adjusted EBITDAX is a widely accepted financial indicator of a company’s ability to incur and service debt and fund capital expenditures and make payments on its long term loans and Management believes that the presentation of Adjusted EBITDAX provides information useful in assessing the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
However, Adjusted EBITDAX, as defined by Isramco, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. Therefore, Isramco’s consolidated Adjusted EBITDAX should be considered in conjunction with income (loss) from operations and other performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, such as operating income or cash flow from operating activities. Adjusted EBITDAX has important limitations as an analytical tool because it excludes certain items that affect income from continuing operations and net cash provided by operating activities. Adjusted EBITDAX should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for an analysis of Isramco’s results as reported under GAAP. Below is a reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDAX to income (loss) from operations before income taxes.
 
   
Three Months Ended September 30,
In thousands except percentages
 
2010
   
2009
 
Loss from operations before income taxes
 
$
(3,802
 
$
(3,236
Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense
   
3,794
     
4,296
 
Interest expense
   
1,923
     
2,288
 
Unrealized loss on derivative contract
   
3,462
     
2,248
 
Accretion Expenses
   
231
     
205
 
Consolidated Adjusted EBITDAX
 
$
5,608
   
$
5,801
 
 
 
20

 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009

 Selected Data
 
   
September 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
   
(In thousands except per share
and MBOE amounts)
 
Financial Results
           
Oil and Gas sales
 
$
29,147
   
$
21,408
 
Other
   
473
     
808
 
Total revenues and other
   
29,620
     
22,216
 
                 
Cost and expenses
   
29,787
     
28,016
 
Other expense
   
114
     
6,946
 
Income tax  benefit
   
(94
   
(4,504
Net loss
   
(187
   
(8,242
Earnings per common share – basic and diluted
 
$
(0.07
 
$
(3.03
)
Weighted average number of shares outstanding-basic and diluted
   
2,717,691
     
2,717,691
 
                 
Operating Results
               
Adjusted EBITDAX (1)
 
$
15,811
   
$
20,218
 
Sales volumes (MMBOE)
   
625
     
682
 
                 
Average cost per MBOE:
               
Production (including transportation and taxes)
 
$
24.15
   
$
16.34
 
General and administrative
 
$
4.41
   
$
4.70
 
Depletion
 
$
16.81
   
$
19.13
 

(1)  
See Adjusted EBITDAX for a description of Adjusted EBITDAX, which is not a Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) measure, and a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDAX to income from operations before income taxes, which is presented in accordance with GAAP.
 
Financial Results
 
Net Income, in the nine months ended September 30, 2010, our net income was $(187) thousand, or $(0.07) per share. This compares to net loss of $(8,242) thousand, or $(3.03) per share, for the same period of 2009.

The decrease in net loss was primarily due to the impact of derivatives, higher natural gas, oil and NGLs sales revenues due to higher prices, lower depreciation, depletion and amortization expenses and lower interest expense. This was partially offset by a decrease in sales volumes of natural gas, oil and natural gas liquids (“NGLs”) caused by adverse weather conditions in Texas that restricted our ability to access, repair and maintain our wells in the first quarter of 2010, along with the natural decline in production, and higher lease operating expenses.

 
21

 
Revenues, Volumes and Average Prices
 
Sales Revenues
 
   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
In thousands except percentages
 
2010
   
2009
   
D vs. 2009
 
Gas sales
 
$
8,650
   
$
6,979
     
24
%
Oil sales
   
16,323
     
11,493
     
42
 
Natural gas liquid sales
   
4,174
     
2,936
     
42
 
Total
 
$
29,147
   
$
21,408
     
36
%

Our sales revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 increased by 36% when compared to same period of 2009 due to higher natural gas, oil and condensate and NGLs commodity prices.

Volumes and Average Prices
 
   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
D vs. 2009
 
Natural Gas
                 
Sales volumes Mmcf
   
1,756.94
     
2,067.22
     
(15
)%
Average Price per Mcf (1)
 
$
4.92
   
$
3.38
     
46
 
Total gas sales revenues (thousands)
 
$
8,650
   
$
6,979
     
24
%
                         
Crude Oil
                       
Sales volumes MBbl
   
215.66
     
220.71
     
(2
)%
Average Price per Bbl (1)
 
$
75.69
   
$
52.08
     
45
 
Total oil sales revenues (thousands)
 
$
16,323
   
$
11,494
     
42
%
                         
Natural gas liquids
                       
Sales volumes MBbl
   
116.49
     
116.69
     
(0.2)
%
Average Price per Bbl (1)
 
$
35.83
   
$
25.16
     
42
 
Total natural gas liquids sales revenues (thousands)
 
$
4,174
   
$
2,936
     
42
%

(1)   
Amounts exclude the impact of cash paid/received on settled contracts as we did not elect to apply hedge accounting

The company’s natural gas sales volumes decreased by 15%, crude oil sales volumes by 2% and natural gas liquids sales volumes by 0.2% for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 compared to the same period of 2009.  This decrease was primarily caused by adverse weather conditions in Texas that restricted our ability to access, repair and maintain our wells in the first quarter of 2010, along with the natural decline in production.

Our average natural gas price for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 increased by 46%, or $1.55 per Mcf, when compared to the same period of 2009. Our average crude oil price for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 increased by 45%, or $23.61 per Bbl, when compared to the same period of 2009. Our average natural gas liquids price for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 increased by 42%, or $10.67 per Bbl, when compared to the same period of 2009.
 
 
22

 
Analysis of Oil and Gas Operations Sales Revenues

The following table provides a summary of the effects of changes in volumes and prices on Isramco’s sales revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 compared to the same period of 2009.

In thousands
 
Natural Gas
   
Oil
   
Natural gas liquids
 
2009 sales revenues
 
$
6,979
   
$
11,493
   
$
2,936
 
Changes associated with sales volumes
   
(1,048
   
(263
   
(5
Changes in prices
   
2,719
     
5,093
     
1,243
 
2010 sales revenues
 
$
8,650
   
$
16,323
   
$
4,174
 

Operating Expenses
 
   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
In thousands except percentages
 
2010
   
2009
   
D vs. 2009
Lease operating expense, transportation and taxes
 
$
15,096
   
$
11,145
     
35
%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
   
10,506
     
13,047
     
(19
Accretion expense
   
639
     
619
     
3
 
Loss from plug and abandonment
   
790
     
-
     
-
 
General and administrative
   
2,756
     
3,205
     
(14
   
$
29,787
   
$
28,016
     
6
%
 
During nine months ended September 30, 2010, our operating expenses increased by 6% when compared to the same period of 2009 due to the following factors:

·  
Lease operating expense, transportation cost and taxes increased by 35%, or $3,951 thousand, in 2010 when compared to 2009.  This increase was the result of the costs associated with a plan we initiated in January 2010 to workover a number of our wells, along with the incremental costs involved in operating older, more mature fields that require additional repair and maintenance as well as the increasing costs of environmental remediation expenditures.  Finally, the higher oil and gas sale prices we received increased the taxes paid during 2010.  On a per unit basis, lease operating expenses (including transportation and taxes) increased by $7.81 per MBOE to $24.15 per MBOE in 2010 from $16.34 per MBOE in 2009.

·  
Depreciation, Depletion &Amortization (DD&A) of the cost of proved oil and gas properties is calculated using the unit-of-production method. Our DD&A rate and expense are the composite of numerous individual field calculations. There are several factors that can impact our composite DD&A rate and expense, including but not limited to field production profiles, drilling or acquisition of new wells, disposition of existing wells,  and reserve revisions (upward or downward) primarily related to well performance and commodity prices, and impairments. Changes in these factors may cause our composite DD&A rate and expense to fluctuate from period to period.  DD&A decreased by 19%, or $2,541 thousand, in 2010 when compared to 2009, primarily due to higher prices (per MBOE) that impacted our estimated total reserves, which are the basis for the depletion calculation, lower oil and gas production, and the impact of a 2009 impairment of $5,751 thousand on the depletable base used to calculate DD&A. On a per unit basis, depletion expense decreased by $2.32 per MBOE to $16.81 per MBOE in 2010 from $19.13 per MBOE in 2009.
 
·  
Accretion expense for asset retirement obligations slightly increased by 3%, or $20 thousand, in 2010 when compared to 2009.

·  
General and administrative expenses decreased by 14%, or $449 thousand, in 2010 when compared to 2009. This decrease was primarily the result of the one-time payment made in 2009 to settle certain litigation with EOG Resources, LLC.
 
 
23

 
Other expenses

   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
In thousands except percentages
 
2010
   
2009
   
D vs. 2009
 
Interest expense, net
 
$
5,840
   
$
7,091
     
(18
)%
Net loss (gain) on derivative contracts
   
(5,726
   
(145
)
   
(3,849
)
   
$
114
   
$
6,946
     
(98
)%
 
Interest expense.  Isramco’s interest expense decreased by 18%, or $1,251 thousand, for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 compared to the same period of 2009.  This decrease is primarily due to the lower average outstanding balance of the loans which we obtained to fund the Five States acquisition in 2007 and the GFB acquisition in 2008, and to decreases in average LIBOR rates during 2009. The decrease was partially offset by the payments on interest rate swaps

Net loss on derivative contracts. We enter into derivative commodity instruments to economically hedge our exposure to price fluctuations on our anticipated oil and natural gas production. Consistent with the prior year, we have elected not to designate any positions as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes. Accordingly, we recorded the net change in the mark-to-market value of these derivative contracts in the consolidated statement of operations.

At September 30, 2010, the Company had a $5.8 million commodity derivative asset, of which $4.4 million was classified as current, and a $1.2 million non-current derivative liability. For the nine months ended September 30, 2010, the Company recorded a net derivative gain of $5.7 million ($0.9 million unrealized gain and a $4.8 million gain from net cash received on settled contracts).

At September 30, 2009, the Company had a $10.8 million derivative asset, which $6 million was classified as current. For the nine months ended September 30, 2009, the Company recorded a net derivative gain of $0.14 million ($12.21 million unrealized loss and a $12.35 million gain from net cash proceeds on settled contracts).
 
Adjusted EBITDAX.  
 
To assess the operating results of Isramco, management analyzes income from operations before income taxes, interest expense, exploration expense, unrealized gain (loss) on derivative contracts and DD&A expense and impairments (“Adjusted EBITDAX”). EBITDAX is not a GAAP measure. Isramco’s definition of Adjusted EBITDAX excludes exploration expense because exploration expense is not an indicator of operating efficiency for a given reporting period, but rather is monitored by management as a part of the costs incurred in exploration and development activities. Similarly, Isramco excludes DD&A expense and impairments from Adjusted EBITDAX as a measure of segment operating performance because capital expenditures are evaluated at the time capital costs are incurred. The Company’s definition of Adjusted EBITDAX also excludes interest expense to allow for assessment of segment operating results without regard to Isramco’s financing methods or capital structure. Adjusted EBITDAX is a widely accepted financial indicator of a company’s ability to incur and service debt and fund capital expenditures and make payments on its long term loans and Management believes that the presentation of Adjusted EBITDAX provides information useful in assessing the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
 
24

 
However, Adjusted EBITDAX, as defined by Isramco, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. Therefore, Isramco’s consolidated Adjusted EBITDAX should be considered in conjunction with income (loss) from operations and other performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, such as operating income or cash flow from operating activities. Adjusted EBITDAX has important limitations as an analytical tool because it excludes certain items that affect income from continuing operations and net cash provided by operating activities. Adjusted EBITDAX should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for an analysis of Isramco’s results as reported under GAAP. Below is a reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDAX to income (loss) from operations before income taxes.

   
Nine Months Ended September 30,
In thousands except percentages
 
2010
   
2009
 
Loss from operations before income taxes
 
$
(281
 
$
(12,746
Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense
   
10,506
     
13,047
 
Interest expense
   
5,840
     
7,091
 
Unrealized loss (gain) on derivative contract
   
(893
   
12,207
 
Accretion Expenses
   
639
     
619
 
Consolidated Adjusted EBITDAX
 
$
15,811
   
$
20,218
 
 
ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
 
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activity
 
We are exposed to various risks, including energy commodity price risk. If oil and natural gas prices decline significantly our ability to finance our capital budget and operations could be adversely impacted. We expect energy prices to remain volatile and unpredictable, therefore we have adopted a risk management policy which provides for the use of derivative instruments to provide partial protection against declines in oil and natural gas prices by reducing the risk of price volatility and the affect it could have on our operations. The type of derivative instrument that we typically utilize is swaps. The total volumes which we hedge through the use of our derivative instruments varies from period to period,
 
We are exposed to market risk on our open derivative contracts of non-performance by our counterparties. However, we do not expect such non-performance because our contracts are with major financial institutions with investment grade credit ratings. Each of the counterparties to our derivative contracts is a lender in our Senior Credit Agreement. We did not post collateral under any of these contracts as they are secured under the Senior Credit Agreement.
 
We are also exposed to interest rate risk on our variable interest rate debt. If interest rates increase, our interest expense would increase and our available cash flow would decrease. Periodically, we look to utilize interest rate swaps to reduce the exposure to market rate fluctuations by converting variable interest rates to fixed interest rates. At September 30, 2010, we had two open positions that convert a portion of our variable rate interest of our Scotia debt (as defined in Note 8, “Long-term Debt” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009) to a fixed rate obligation, thereby reducing the exposure to market rate fluctuations. We continue to monitor our risk exposure as we incur future indebtedness at variable interest rates and will look to continue our risk management policy as situations present themselves.
 
We account for our derivative activities under the provisions of ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815). ASC 815 establishes accounting and reporting that every derivative instrument be recorded on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at fair value. See Item 1. Consolidated Financial Statements—Note 3, “Derivative contracts” for more details.
 
 
25

 
ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.
 
In accordance with Exchange Act Rule 13a-15 and 15d-15, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2010 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Our disclosure controls and procedures include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
26

 
PART II - Other Information
 
   
Legal Proceedings
   
 
We disclosed information in our quarterly report for the three months ended June 30, 2010 relating to the above-referenced two putative shareholder derivative petitions that were filed by individual shareholders of the Company in the District Court of Harris County, Texas.  These petitions each named certain of our officers and directors as defendants.  Each of these suits claims that the shareholders were damaged as a result of various breaches of fiduciary duty, self dealing and other wrongdoing in connection with the Restated Agreement between the Company and Goodrich,, primarily on the part of the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Haim Tsuff, and Jackob Maimon. Subsequent to remand by the federal court to state court, the cases were consolidated in the 55th Judicial District Court of Harris County, Texas, by order dated January 6, 2010. On or about April 6, 2010, a third complaint was filed in the 295th District Court of Harris County, Texas by Yuval Ran, who claimed to be a shareholder, against certain of our officers and directors and several corporate parties controlled by Haim Tsuff.  As with the prior suits, this complaint alleged various breaches of duty, self dealing and other wrongdoing in connection with the Restated Agreement between the Company and Goodrich, primarily on the part of the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Haim Tsuff, and Jackob Maimon.  In addition, this suit alleged claims relating to other transactions between the Company and entities controlled by Haim Tsuff, including but not limited to the loan transactions between the Company and related parties, the lease and sale of a cruise ship, and the closure of the Company’s Israel branch office.  The third complaint was transferred to the 55th Judicial District Court of Harris County, Texas, by order signed April 20, 2010, and consolidated with the above-referenced first and second complaints by order signed May 21, 2010.
 
Jackob Maimon is a former President and a director who resigned from all positions held with us on June 29, 2010.
 
Subsequently, on or about September 7, 2010, the plaintiffs in the first two actions jointly filed an amended petition, which included some, but not all, of the claims alleged in the third complaint; and on or about October 4, 2010, the Court granted the motion to withdraw as plaintiff filed by the plaintiff in the third complaint   On October 6, 2010, the parties attempted to mediate the case but no settlement was forthcoming.  The Company believes that the claims are without any basis in fact or at law.  The Company and all other defendants who have been served have filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated case and special exceptions, which are pending.
 
We also disclosed information in our quarterly report for the three months ended June 30, 2010 relating to an additional putative shareholder derivative complaint that was filed by an individual shareholder, Yuval Lapiner, on July 7, 2010 in the Delaware Chancery Court in Wilmington, Delaware, naming certain of our officers and directors as defendants. The claims asserted in this case are essentially the same damage claims as asserted in the lawsuit filed in April 2010 and described above. The Company filed motions in the Chancery Court to Dismiss or Stay the lawsuit and, by order dated October 20, 2010, the case was dismissed. The plaintiff has thirty days from the entry of the order of dismissal to file a notice of appeal but has not done so as of the date hereof. As with the cases discussed above, the Company believes the suit to be without merit and the Company and the other defendants intend to vigorously defend the lawsuit in the event it is successfully appealed. 
   
Risk Factors
 
None
 
Change in Securities & Use of Proceeds
   
 
None
   
Default Upon Senior Securities
   
 
None
   
Removed and Reserved
   
 
None

Other Information
   
 
None
   
Exhibits

Exhibits
 
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
 
 
27

 
SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. 
 
 
 
 
ISRAMCO, INC
 
       
Date:  NOVEMBER 9, 2010  
By:
/s/ HAIM TSUFF                     
 
   
HAIM TSUFF
 
   
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
 
   
(PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER)
 
 
Date:  NOVEMBER 9, 2010    
By:
/s/ EDY FRANCIS                     
 
   
EDY FRANCIS
 
   
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
 
   
(PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL AND PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING OFFICER)
 
 
 
28